In today’s fast life, we often ignore basics and unknowingly inch closer to diseases, which can prove to be fatal, if not
checked in time. The changed lifestyle, prolonged working hours, hectic commute and the growing incidence of obesity, coupled with sedentary lifestyle might lead to Chronic Kidney Disease. In addition to formation of urine and cleaning the body, kidneys also help in maintaining normal blood pressure, hemoglobin level and bone strength.
Chronic Kidney Disease develops when the kidneys chronically do not function optimally to filter waste products, or leak abnormal amounts of protein or blood into the urine. This is mostly the result of damage caused by common diseases such as diabetes and uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension).
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is rapidly assuming epidemic proportions globally. In India too, the burden is significant. This so called “silent killer” affects approximately one in every 10 adults in India1. But because there are few symptoms in the early stages of the disease, not many patients realize they are affected until it is too late.
However, If CKD is detected early and managed appropriately, the deterioration in kidney function can be slowed or even stopped, and the risk of associated complications can be reduced.
On the occasion of World Kidney Day 2015, following the theme “Kidney Health for All”, Global Hospitals organized a kidney diseases awareness talk followed by a quiz competition for its Employees, Patients and Visitors. Everyone was invited to drink and offer a glass of water a symbolic gesture that kidneys are important and should be taken care of, underlying call to action being good water hygiene, keeping oneself hydrated and healthy choice of beverages. People were also encouraged to sign a pledge for taking care of their kidneys and donating their organs after death.
Around 20 to 30% of people with diabetes develop kidney diseases2. In addition to diabetes and high blood pressure which are leading causes of CKD, other conditions that increase the risk of kidney diseases include heart disease, obesity, older age, high cholesterol, abuse of pain killers and a family history of chronic kidney disease. The symptoms of chronic kidney disease includes shortness of breath, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness, sleeping disability, changes in urine output and decreased mental sharpness.
“Individuals have to be more precautious of the fact that kidney failure is not just an elderly disease. More and more younger generation is falling prey to it. Primary prevention measures aim to eliminate or reduce exposure to factors which cause ill health or the disease. People with diabetes and hypertension are recommended for simple screening procedures for timely diagnosis and elimination of risk if any,” said Dr. Bharat Shah, Head, Institute of Renal Sciences, Global Hospitals Mumbai
